Truth 101 Class

  Deuteronomy literally means second law .  This book provides a review of the Law and concludes the Pentateuch (i.e., the first five books of the Bible:  Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy).  It is also a book of transitions with God speaking through Moses to teach His People what He wants them to know, as they transition from 40 years of wandering in the wilderness to finally entering the Promised Land. Moses is now 120 years old.  He has been the leader of the Israelites in the wilderness ever since they were delivered from slavery in Egypt.  However, he will not be entering the Promised Land, so Deuteronomy essentially records his farewell speeches as he transitions leadership to Joshua.  A common outline for the Book of Deuteronomy is structured around three speeches of Moses: I.  Introduction (1:1-5) II. First Speech (1:6-4:43) - Historical Review III. Second Speech (4:44-28:68) - Covenant Stipulations IV. Third Speech (29:1-30:20) - Final Exhortations V.  Concl

  The Book of Psalms is a beloved collection of 150 psalms grouped into five books:  Book I (1-41), II (42-72), III (73-89), IV (90-106), and V (107-150).  Some have considered parallels between these and the Pentateuch (i.e., Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy): Book I begins the psalms and introduces the overall theme of wisdom literature that the righteous are blessed but the wicked will receive judgment.  God is typically referred to as the Covenant LORD . Book II focuses on deliverance , particularly God's deliverance of David from his enemies.  God is often referred to as Elohim, Almighty God . Book III includes psalms of community worship and laments.  Many of these psalms are written by Levitical worship leaders such as Asaph or the Sons of Korah. Book IV starts with a psalm of Moses and includes some historical psalms.  Several of these psalms also show the depravity of man. Book V focuses on God's Word (e.g., Psalm 119) and concludes in doxolo

  Psalm 150 is part of the Final Hallel section (146-150), providing a doxology to the Book of Psalms.  These praise psalms begin and end with "Praise the LORD!" or "Hallelujah!" This psalm uses the word "praise" thirteen times, which is a fitting way to end the Book of Psalms. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-6 What do these verses show us about WHERE, WHY, and HOW God should be praised, as well as WHO should praise Him? Now at the end of the Book of Psalms, what do I praise God for the most? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Let Everything that has Breath" by Matt Redman:  Link

  Psalm 149 is part of the Final Hallel section (146-150), providing a doxology to the Book of Psalms.  These praise psalms begin and end with "Praise the LORD!" or "Hallelujah!"  This psalm is likely a victory song of praise from God's People to their King for deliverance but also judgment against their enemies. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-5 God's people are called to praise Him no matter where we are, together in assembly (v. 1) as well as alone in our beds (v. 5).  What do these verses teach us about praising the LORD? The last part of verse 4 may be translated "crowns the humble with victory," "adorns the afflicted with salvation," "beautifies the meek with salvation," "glorifies the lowly with salvation," or "exalts the oppressed by delivering them."  C.H. Spurgeon says that each "gives a new shade of meaning, well worthy

  Psalm 148 is part of the Final Hallel section (146-150), providing a doxology to the Book of Psalms.  This praise psalm begins and ends with "Praise the LORD!" or "Hallelujah!" This psalm is a call to all creation in heaven and earth to join in praising our Creator, Sustainer and LORD. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-6 These verses are a call to "Praise the LORD from the heavens " (v.1).  Why is God worthy of praise? Verses 7-14  These verses are a call to "Praise the LORD f rom the earth " (v. 7).  Why should God's people especially praise Him?  If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "All Creatures of Our God and King" by Sovereign Grace Music:  Link [NOTE:  This hymn was originally written by St. Francis of Assisi with inspiration from Psalm 148 (and Psalm 145) and translated into English

  Psalm 147 is part of the Final Hallel section (146-150), providing a doxology to the Book of Psalms.  This praise psalm begins and ends with "Praise the LORD!" or "Hallelujah!"  It may be postexilic, written after the rebuilding of the wall around Jerusalem.  God's People are to praise the One who cares, the Almighty Creator, and the LORD who has given us His Word that we might know Him. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-6 What are some of the reasons why we are to praise the LORD? Verses 7-11 The LORD, who has power over all creation, "is pleased with those who fear Him" (v. 11). How can I live a life that is pleasing to the LORD? Verses 12-20 God's people have been blessed by God like no other (v. 20). What special blessings and privileges have I received from the LORD?  If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube vide